sombrero

American  

[som-brair-oh, sawm-bre-raw] / sɒmˈbrɛər oʊ, sɔmˈbrɛ rɔ /

noun

plural

sombreros

1. a broad-brimmed hat of straw or felt, usually tall-crowned, worn especially in Spain, Mexico, and the southwestern United States.

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sombrero British  

/ sɒmˈbrɛərəʊ /

noun

1. a felt or straw hat with a wide brim, as worn by men in Mexico

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Other Word Forms

• sombreroed adjective

Etymology

Origin of sombrero

First recorded in 1590–1600; from Spanish: “hat,” derivative of sombra “shade”; see somber

Explanation

In English, the word sombrero refers specifically to a type of wide-brimmed hat traditionally worn in Mexico, but in Spanish, it is simply the word for a hat of any kind. The type of hat most often referred to as a sombrero in English is actually called a sombrero de charro — meaning "cowboy hat" — in Mexico. These hats are often decorated with intricate patterns and colorful designs, and are traditionally made of straw. The sombrero plays a significant role in Mexican culture, commonly seen at festivals, celebrations, and traditional dances.

Example Sentences

In 1990, for the Fernando Valenzuela no-hitter: “If you have a sombrero, throw it to the sky!”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2026

“Don’t worry, be happy,” Maduro said at an event in the capital of Caracas, wearing a sombrero and flashing a peace sign as he sang along to the Bobby McFerrin classic.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 30, 2025

Many of their faces, painted a ghostly white, were framed by embroidered Tejano hats — and one massive mariachi sombrero.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 28, 2025

A black sombrero hangs on a wall outside the recording booth and a bold neon sign flashes in white: “Ya es Tiempo,” the time is now.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 12, 2023

“Stand in front,” he urges, “so you will be seen. Wear a big sombrero, so you will really be seen. Most important, look smart.”

From "Beast Rider" by Tony Johnston & María Elena Fontanot de Rhoads

Related Words

• fedora
• headgear
• helmet